What are the symptoms of a panic attack?

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Symptoms of a Panic Attack

Panic attacks are sudden episodes of intense fear or discomfort that peak within minutes and are accompanied by a variety of physical and cognitive symptoms. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for recognizing and managing panic attacks effectively.

Common Physical Symptoms

Cardiovascular and Respiratory Symptoms

One of the most frequently reported symptoms during a panic attack is circulatory distress, which includes palpitations and chest pain or discomfort . Respiratory symptoms such as shortness of breath, choking sensations, and smothering feelings are also common . These symptoms often lead individuals to believe they are experiencing a heart attack or other severe medical conditions.

Dizziness and Sweating

Dizziness or lightheadedness is another early symptom of a panic attack, often accompanied by sweating . These symptoms can contribute to the overwhelming sense of fear and loss of control that characterizes panic attacks.

Gastrointestinal and Autonomic Symptoms

Nausea or abdominal distress, along with chills or hot flushes, are also reported during panic attacks . These autonomic symptoms can further exacerbate the individual's distress and discomfort.

Cognitive and Emotional Symptoms

Fear of Dying or Losing Control

Cognitive symptoms such as the fear of dying, fear of going crazy, or fear of losing control are prevalent during panic attacks . These fears are often irrational but feel very real to the person experiencing the attack, adding to the overall sense of panic.

Depersonalization and Derealization

Feelings of depersonalization (a sense of detachment from oneself) and derealization (a sense that the world is not real) are also common cognitive symptoms . These sensations can be particularly disorienting and frightening, contributing to the severity of the panic attack.

Symptom Clusters

Three-Factor Model

Research has identified three main clusters of panic attack symptoms: dizziness-related symptoms, cardiorespiratory distress, and cognitive factors . This model helps in understanding the diverse nature of panic attacks and the various ways they can manifest.

Early, Intermediate, and Late Symptoms

Panic symptoms can also be categorized based on their sequence of occurrence. Early symptoms include dizziness, palpitations, and sweating. Intermediate symptoms involve dyspnea, nausea, and chest pain, while late symptoms include paresthesias (numbness or tingling), fear of dying, and fear of going crazy.

Conclusion

Panic attacks are characterized by a combination of physical and cognitive symptoms that can be extremely distressing. Recognizing these symptoms—ranging from cardiovascular and respiratory distress to intense fears and feelings of unreality—can aid in the timely identification and management of panic attacks. Understanding the symptom clusters and their sequence can also provide valuable insights into the nature of these episodes, helping both sufferers and healthcare providers to address them more effectively.